Review

“We’re not a hardcore band, metal band, or punk band. We’re just a band that likes to make loud and crazy music.” – Caleb Shomo

Whatever you may define the music that Beartooth makes, it truly is “Sick”. On the 7th of August 2013, I got the chance to see Beartooth in concert as they were touring with The Ghost Inside. It truly was a show to remember. The quote above is something that frontman and ex Attack Attack! vocalist said in the middle of their show. It got me thinking that “loud and crazy” was a fantastic way to describe their new EP.

It is safe to say that Caleb has grown up tremendously since his days as the young chubby “emo” looking keyboardist from Attack Attack! This can be said because of his lyrical content that focuses on helping others with possibly some of the mistakes he has made in the past. It is unclear whether Caleb has gone through problems with alcohol himself, but it seems to be a topic he chose for the first song I Have A Problem in which is a cry out for help to God. The combination of his improved vocal range and the fast paced guitar riffs make this a fun listen, not to mention the chorus is extremely catchy.

As much as Shomo has matured as a person, he also has matured as a vocalist. This can really be heard and felt in Go Be The Voice. His vocal range has been enlarged as said before, but it is really expressed in this song because of the emotions that he must be feeling while screaming and singing about an important topic to him. Religion seems to make many people go crazy, but this crazy is great. This story of his past religious experiences and again, catchy chorus is bound to be a fan favorite of the band’s.

The rest of the EP has the same monotonous riffs and chugs that the first two include, but it is in no way a bad thing. The deep bass and guitar mix extremely well with Caleb Shomo’s voice. While watching Beartooth play live, they reminded me much of The Chariot. If you love crazy, both in album and on stage, you will love this band.

They did also play some new songs at the show, so be prepared for new material sometime early next year.